Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire
The Oldsmobile F-85 is best known for its Jetfire variant, one of the world's first turbocharged production cars. Today, these early compacts are affordable classics, with the rare and complex Jetfire commanding a significant market premium.
Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire sold for a median of $20,300 over the last 12 months, based on 5 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $6,200 and $23,100. 3 currently for sale.
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29 listed in the past year. The last was today.
Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1962 | $16k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1963 | $15k | – | 3 | 1 |
| 1964 | $25k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1965 | – | – | 0 | 0 |
| 1966 | $6.2k | – | 1 | 1 |
| 1969 | $56k | – | 1 | 0 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
Oldsmobile introduced the F-85 in 1961 as its entry into the growing compact market, sharing its unibody platform with the Buick Special and Pontiac Tempest. The car's heart was a technologically advanced, all-aluminum 215 cubic inch V8. This engine formed the basis for the line's most famous model, the 1962-1963 Jetfire, which holds the distinction of being one of the first two turbocharged production cars ever sold.
The Jetfire's Garrett AiResearch T5 turbocharger and its required "Turbo-Rocket Fluid" water-methanol injection system produced an impressive 215 horsepower, but the technology was new and often misunderstood. Many dealers and owners disabled the complex turbo setups, making a complete, functional Jetfire exceptionally rare today. This historical significance is what drives collector demand, as enthusiasts seek out one of the earliest examples of forced induction in a passenger car.
The market for the F-85 and Jetfire is small but dedicated. The low number of public sales shows a niche following where cars often trade privately. Base F-85 models remain very affordable, but the price ceiling is set by perfectly restored Jetfires. With an average sale price under $18,000, the F-85 line offers an accessible entry point to a unique piece of GM history.
Buying Tips
- For Jetfire models, confirm the turbocharger system is complete and, if possible, functional. Restoring a missing or broken setup is extremely difficult due to rare parts.
- Inspect the "Turbo-Rocket Fluid" reservoir and its associated plumbing. The presence of these original components adds significant value, even if the system is bypassed.
- The aluminum 215 V8 is prone to corrosion in its cooling passages if the incorrect coolant was used. Check for signs of overheating like warped heads or coolant leaks.
- Rust is a key concern on these unibody cars. Pay close attention to the floors, trunk pan, lower fenders, and the areas around the front and rear window seals.
- Parts for the Jetfire-specific engine components are scarce, while trim and mechanical parts for standard F-85 and Cutlass models are more readily available.
Prices range from just over $1,000 for project cars to $33,000 for top-spec Jetfire models.
121 Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 3 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire cost?
Over the last 12 months, Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire sold for a median of $20,300 across 5 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $6,200 and $23,100. There are 3 currently for sale.
How many Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire listings are for sale right now?
There are 3 Oldsmobile F-85 & Jetfire listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.